CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY LAB

EXPERIMENT NO.:-20

Object: - To determine the NDT test by rebound hammer method.

Principle:- When the plunger of rebound hammer is pressed against the

surface of concrete, a spring controlled mass with a constant energy is made
to hit concrete surface to rebound back. The extent of rebound, which is a
measure of surface hardness, is measured on a graduated scale. This
measured value is designated as Rebound Number (rebound index). A
concrete with low strength and low stiffness will absorb more energy to yield
in a lower rebound value.

Apparatus: - (1) Rebound hammer.

Brief Procedure: -

i) Before commencement of a test, the rebound hammer should be tested

against the test anvil, to get reliable results, for which the manufacturer of the
rebound hammer indicates the range of readings on the anvil suitable for
different types of rebound hammer.

ii) Apply light pressure on the plunger – it will release it from the locked
position and allow it to extend to the ready position for the test.

iii) Press the plunger against the surface of the concrete, keeping the
instrument perpendicular to the test surface. Apply a gradual increase in
pressure until the hammer impacts. (Do not touch the button while
depressing the plunger. Press the button after impact, in case it is not
convenient to note the rebound reading in that position.)

iv) Take the average of about 15 readings.

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 CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY LAB
OBSERVATION SHEET

Sr. no. Rebound values Quality of Concrete

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Results:

Remarks:- Quality of concrete from rebound values

Comparative Hardness

Average Rebound Quality of Concrete

>40 Very good
30 – 40 Good
20 – 30 Fair
<20 Poor and / or delaminated
0 Very poor and/or
delaminated

Rebound hammer apparatus

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